GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – Most cable or
satellite network startups have months, sometimes more than a year, to prepare
for launching their network. TheBlaze had less than 45 days, according to
Broadway Systems, which assisted with the deployment.

TheBlaze began as GBTV, an online, subscription-based channel with six hours of
programming each day. Last June, the company was rebranded as TheBlaze and
moved forward with plans for a 24-hour programming schedule. In addition to its
Web-based service, the network negotiated distribution agreements with Dish
Network.

“We had the foundation of GBTV to start, but going from six hours a day to 24/7
is a huge jump,” said Eric Pearce, senior vice president of television
operations. “We had about 40 days to get everything up and running. It was
pretty intense.”

TheBlaze needed a partner that could manage its advertising at the right
economics – and was capable of meeting its tight deadline. They initially
contacted Broadway Systems in late July 2012 and were able to launch on
schedule on Sept. 12.

While the majority of network programming is based out of Dallas, TheBlaze
maintains its sales offices in New York City. Pearce said Broadway spent time
at the network’s Times Square location training TheBlaze personnel how to use
its programming, scheduling, and traffic and billing modules.

Over the past 12 months, Broadway Systems said it has implemented or entered
into long-term contracts with a number of national cable networks, including
BBC America, MGM Syndication, MNET, Tennis Channel, and WWE.

Print

Email

Share

Comments

Post New CommentIf you are already a member, or would like to receive email alerts as new comments are
made, please login or register.

Enter the code shown above:

(Note: If you cannot read the numbers in the above
image, reload the page to generate a new one.)

The FAA’s current rules and proposed ban on flight over people, requirement of visual line of sight and restriction on nighttime flying, effectively prohibit broadcasters from using UAS for newsgathering. ~ WMUR-TV General Manager Jeff Bartlett